REAL ID-compliant License
For U.S. Driver's Licenses or State IDs:
- Look for the "REAL ID" star:
- A REAL ID-compliant license usually has a gold or black star in the top right corner.
No star may indicate it's not REAL ID-compliant (but the license could still be valid for driving).
Check security features:
- Microprinting
- Holograms or ghost images
- Raised or textured text
UV features (visible under blacklight)
Match the information:
- Compare the photo, height, eye color, and signature to the person presenting it.
Ensure all text is spelled correctly—fake IDs often contain typos.
Scan it:
- Many modern scanners or ID-verification apps can validate barcodes on the back.